Plan Your Trip To Andaman Islands
How To Plan Your Trip
Traditionally, the tourist season here begins from October. The busiest time is between November and February while June to September is considered off-season. However, most diving activities remain operational throughout the year.
The Andamans offer a wide range of experiences and destinations to choose from. There are private and government-run ferries that you can use to travel between islands. Plan in advance to make the most from your holiday here.
7 Tips to help you plan your stay in Port Blair
Find a relaxing sojourn
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have to spend a day in Port Blair on your way to Havelock. You can also choose to extend your stay and explore the main island a bit more. The key thing is to find a comfortable and affordable place to stay during your time there. We have a few suggestions.
The Best Stay
Light and sound show in Ross Island
Ross Island is a short boat ride away from Port Blair and offers a taste of history. There are ruins of British Administrative buildings to be seen, while deer, peacocks and birds can be spotted in plenty. Don’t miss the light and sound show at Ross Island, which is considered superior to the one at Cellular Jail.
The Best Show
Cellular Jail
The Cellular Jail is a landmark of historical relevance that must be visited during your stay in Port Blair. This was a colonial prison built during the British rule of India and was used to exile many political prisoners. The site is now a memorial monument depicting the struggles of those who stayed there. A light and sound show is held every evening depicting the history of the Andamans and the prison.
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A taste of adventure at North Bay
Check the back of an Indian 20 rupee note, the picture of the lighthouse printed on the back is a view of North Bay. North Bay is accessible by boat from Port Blair and is known mainly for the watersports activities conducted there. While Havelock is a more popular spot for scuba diving, other activities one can try there are a ride on a glass bottom boat, sea walk or a comfortable Coral Safari on a semi submarine preferrable for those who want to stay dry but still enjoy a view of the reef.
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Wandoor Beach and Jolly Buoy Island
The main draw of a trip to Jolly Buoy is the chance to enjoy a ride over turquoise waters, snorkel over pristine coral reefs and enjoy a trip out on glass bottom boats. Jolly Buoy is open to tourists for 6 months in the year. Between May and October one can take a similar trip to Red Skin island. Wandoor beach located on the main island is the longest shoreline stretch on the main island and is a gateway to the trips to Jolly Buoy and Red Skin.
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Drive out to Chidiyatapu Beach
The name Chidiyatapu translates to ‘bird Island’ and is a dream destination for bird enthusiasts. Located at the southern most tip of the South Andaman region, Chidiyatapu hosts many migratory and native species of birds. You can take a trek out to watch a beautiful view of the sunset from Munda Pahad or visit some endangered endemic animals at the Chidiyatapu Biological Park.
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Baratang Island
If you plan to add a trip to Baratang to your itinerary we recommend you set aside a full day for this. You will need to be in Port Blair a day before you plan to visit Baratang. The main draw of a visit to this part of the Andamans while going by road is a ride through the tribal reserve area where the Jarawa tribe resides. The Limestone caves are also one of the key attractions on a trip to Baratang. A trip to see the formations of limestone inside a cave, accessible through a mangrove forest.
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5 Things you must not miss in Havelock
Radhanagar Beach
Radhanagar beach is commonly listed as one of the best beaches in Asia. A common tourist attraction, the beach can get a bit crowded during sunset. However, the beach is long and we highly recommend walking a short distance away from the crowd at the main entrance and enjoying the spectacular view at sunset or lounge around during the day. The beach has been featured in some Indian movies and you’ll see why during your visit.
The Best Beach
Kalapathar Beach
Kalapathar beach is on the eastern coast of Havelock Island. Head over early in the morning to enjoy an enthralling view of the sunrise. However, we recommend a trip at any time in the day as well for the beautiful drive along the coast. Little shops run by local vendors serve snacks and sell souvenirs at the main beach.
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Elephant Beach
Elephant beach is the watersports activity hub at Havelock Island. Local operators conduct snorkelling, jet ski rides, amongst other activities here. You can either get a boat from the harbour to reach Elephant beach or walk through a 30 minute trail going through the forest, a supari plantation and the mangroves to get there.
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Scuba Diving
There are a plenitude of options for scuba diving in Havelock. We can help you plan your trip based on your requirements and experience level. For beginners we however recommend going through the checklist of medical conditions to make sure one is fit to enjoy scuba diving. If not, a doctor that is familiar with your conditions can sign a consent form, which you can bring along.
The Best Activity
Snorkelling and Kayaking
It’s worth setting aside a day for the snorkelling and kayaking trips conducted in Havelock. Swimming is not a prerequisite to participate in any of these activities. Snorkelling and kayaking guides accompany you and make sure your trip is comfortable and enjoyable. Carry a change of clothes and be prepared to get soaked.
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4 spots to enjoy at Neil Island
Bharatpur Beach
Situated close to the harbour at Neil, the hub of water sports activity on the island is at the Bharatpur beach. The calm waters and white sand beach make for an enchanting view even for those who wish to enjoy their time out of the water. Plan an early day if you’re looking to partake in the water sports activities. Enjoy a session of scuba diving and head over for a snack at the stalls set up by local food vendors.
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Natural Bridge
This natural bridge-like formation is created by the lashing of waves against a rocky wall jutting out which has gotten eroded to make this structure. The Natural bridge is best visited during low-tide. The walk to the Natural bridge is through a wet and rocky path, so make sure you’re prepared accordingly. There is marine life to be seen such as sea urchin, sea cucumbers or maybe even a juvenile octopus along the walk in small tide pools.
The Best Sighting
Laxmanpur Beach
Laxmanpur beach is worth a visit for a view of the sunset. As the sun sets, the water reflects the colours of the sky making for a dazzling sight. Laxmanpur beach tends to get crowded during sunset but there is ample space to walk away from the crowd and set up a beach mat and enjoy the view in solitude. This beach is a rocky one and therefore isn’t particularly popular for swimming.
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Sitapur Beach
As the saying goes – the early bird gets the worm. Sitapur beach is for those early birds. Watch the sky changing colours as the sun rises on the horizon. This beach is best known for the sunrise view. Located on the southern tip of Neil Island, Laxmanpur beach faces the open sea and gives you an unobstructed view of the sun emerging out of the ocean.
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REACH US
Beach-02, opposite HDFC Bank, Govind Nagar, Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744211
CALL US
094760 07010
WRITE US
seahawkswatersports@gmail.com